This blog started off by focussing on NZ's smaller 3rd level airlines, past and present. It has evolved to trying to present some record of NZ's domestic airline operations and some of the larger charter operators, interesting NZ international airliner movements and photos I have taken around the country. Comments, corrections or contributions are welcome, Steve - westland831@gmail.com

27 January 2011

Air Nelson Paraparaumu Service Announced

Paraparaumu is set to become the 27th domestic airport serviced by Air New Zealand, with its subsidiary Air Nelson beginning scheduled commercial services between Auckland and the Kapiti Coast from Labour Weekend this year. Air Nelson will operate three return services a day (Monday to Friday) between Paraparaumu and Auckland using its 50-seater Bombardier Q300 aircraft, with a further three return weekend services. Flight time is 70 minutes, with a total of 1800 seats available per week on the route. Air Nelson GM Grant Kerr says, "Paraparaumu Airport Limited is making a multi-million dollar investment to bring the airfield up to the standard required for regular commercial flights including resurfacing the main runway, upgrading the runway lighting, and installing new airspace safety controls via an Airways NZ operated Aircraft Flight Information Service (AFIS). They will also provide a brand new terminal building and car park. "Paraparaumu Airport's location offers passengers from the Kapiti Coast a much more convenient alternative to the 45 minute drive to Wellington Airport. It's all part of our constant drive to innovate in ways that save our customers time in their overall journey with new services such as self check in and Fast Bag." "While we'll start out with 18 return Paraparaumu - Auckland services per week, we're open to expanding the schedule over time if there's demand." The inaugural flight from Auckland to Paraparaumu will take place on Labour Day, Monday 24 October. Pricing and on-sale dates will be announced towards the middle of the year.